Are dogs allowed to eat almonds?
This is a common question among dog parents. Making sure your pet has a balanced diet is one of the most important things you can do for them, so knowing whether almonds are a good choice is critical.
Read on to learn more about dogs and almond butter and whether this is a food your dog should be eating.
Table of Contents
Can Dogs Eat Almonds?
No, dogs should not eat almonds. Almonds are high in fat. Though vitamins from almonds can be beneficial for humans, those nutrients can be found elsewhere.
This can be risky, and there are side effects of dogs eating nuts due to the many potential health concerns. They are:
Gastrointestinal Damage
Eating too many almonds at once or over a prolonged period of time can cause gastrointestinal damage in dogs. High levels of fat and oil can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. The sharp edges of almonds can also damage the stomach and intestines.
Due to their small size, dogs often swallow almonds whole, which can result in a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract. If almond consumption by your pet is suspected, it is important to visit an emergency clinic as soon as possible. They may check the stomach’s content to determine if obstruction is present.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas that is caused by the buildup of fat in the bloodstream. Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs can range from acute vomiting, diarrhea, limping, depression, decrease in appetite, and abdominal pain. When affected by pancreatitis, a dog can become very ill and may need hospitalization.
The risk from eating almonds in dogs increases with the amount of almonds consumed and the dog’s size, age, and breed. Thus, almonds should be offered to dogs in moderation to avoid the risk of pancreatitis related to almond consumption.
Allergic Reactions
Almonds have high levels of protein, which can cause an allergic reaction in dogs, leading to various symptoms such as skin rash, itchiness, or sneezing. Other reactions can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock may also occur in which the airways start to swell, resulting in difficulty in respiration.
Therefore, almonds should not be fed to dogs, especially for those who are not used to having almonds in their diet. Before giving any type of nut or food to your dog, it is important to consult your vet first to identify dangerous foods for dogs.
Weight Gain
Dogs that are overweight are more prone to respiratory problems, cardiac issues, and joint pain, among other issues. To prevent the risks associated with weight gain, owners should check portions while monitoring their dog’s activity levels for any irregularities. Consider almonds as a treat and ensure that the dog is exercising to maintain its healthy weight.
Tooth Damage
Almonds have a very hard consistency when compared to other snacks and can be difficult for dogs to chew. The jagged surface of the almond can scratch and wear down tooth enamel or cause other damage to the gums.
The pieces left behind in the mouth can get lodged between teeth and cause further damage. As a precaution, it is wise to avoid giving your pet dog almonds, particularly if it has weaker teeth or existing dental issues.
High Levels of Aflatoxin
Aflatoxin is a chemical produced by certain types of fungi that can be found in foods such as almonds, peanuts, and other nuts. High levels of aflatoxin can cause serious health issues in dogs, such as vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, jaundice (yellowing of the whites of the eyes and gums), and even death. Dogs should never be given almonds that are moldy or have visible fungus or discoloration.
Make sure to store all nuts in a cool, dry place. Additionally, it’s important to check for aflatoxins in the purchase and any product before giving it to your companion. If you have any doubts, it’s best to consult your vet for advice on whether can dogs have almonds, as they have the experience and knowledge to check the risk of any food.
Almond Butter vs. Peanut Butter for Dogs
There are differences between almond butter and peanut butter that may affect the safety of giving either to pooches. Peanut butter is a popular choice for dog owners, but almond butter can be dangerous. Almond butter contains high levels of phosphorus, which can cause damage to a dog’s body.
Peanut butter, on the other hand, is generally higher in protein and much lower in phosphorus. Further, sodium levels in almond butter are much higher than in peanut butter and can lead to excessive thirst or water consumption for dogs. Nut oils in almond butter can cause pancreatitis in dogs, while the oils in peanut butter are generally safe.
What Will You Do If Your Dog Ate Almonds?
If your dog has eaten almonds, watch them for signs of gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. If any of these symptoms occur, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. Even if no symptoms occur, you should call or visit the vet to check for any potential blockages in your dog’s intestines from the almonds.
The vet may take X-rays or do an ultrasound to determine if the almonds are causing any blockages. Additionally, your vet may prescribe medications to settle the stomach or reduce any discomfort.
Prevention is key in this situation, and it’s best to keep almonds and other human foods out of the reach of your pet. Make sure the dog is supervised when walking and playing outdoors so they are prevented from consuming anything that could harm them.
Find Out More About Dogs and Almond Butter
In conclusion, dogs and almond butter are not a natural pair. However, small amounts of almond butter may be a suitable treat for certain dogs.
Before giving your dog any chef-made food, be sure to consult your veterinarian for guidance and advice. Your dog’s health and happiness should always be a top priority!
Looking for more? If so, check out the rest of our blog!
